Downtube Nova vs. Origami Crane

I'm thinking of buying my first folder and trying to decide between the Nova and the Crane. Weight and price are important (under 26 pounds and under $400), also ability to carry panniers. I'd use it for train and bus travel. I've looked on this site but haven't seen any direct comparisons.
Any recommendations would be welcome.

The Crane has been improved significantly for the 2013 model year. The Crane come standard with fenders and rack, the Nova does not. The Nova is a 7 speed, the Crane is a 6 speed. The hinge on the Nova handlebar stem uses a wingnut-type fastener, the Crane uses a simple lever.

The Crane has been improved significantly for the 2013 model year. The Crane come standard with fenders and rack, the Nova does not. The Nova is a 7 speed, the Crane is a 6 speed. The hinge on the Nova handlebar stem uses a wingnut-type fastener, the Crane uses a simple lever.

Thanks for your input! Glad you can chime in here since you are related to the company. After becoming a sponsor here, how about some group buys at a great discounted price!!

Last edited by Siu Blue Wind; 08-23-12 at 03:02 PM.

Originally Posted by Buddha

We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world.

Originally Posted by making

Please dont outsmart the censor. That is a very expensive censor and every time one of you guys outsmart it it makes someone at the home office feel bad. We dont wanna do that. So dont cleverly disguise bad words.

I'm also looking for my first folder, under $350, choosing between the Downtube nova($329), Citizen Miami ($200), Origami Crane ($340), and bicycles on Craigslist. Weight isn't a huge problem, but comfort is (looking for commute and weekend 2-3 hours of exploring city). 5-10 and 180 pounds, so all three would do

I'm also looking for my first folder, under $350, choosing between the Downtube nova($329), Citizen Miami ($200), Origami Crane ($340), and bicycles on Craigslist. Weight isn't a huge problem, but comfort is (looking for commute and weekend 2-3 hours of exploring city). 5-10 and 180 pounds, so all three would do

any reason to choose one bicycle over another?

Correction: The Origami Crane is only $289.00 (The Cricket with full suspension is $339.00). The Origami and the Downtube are aluminum, the Citizen is steel. If weight does not matter, you may want to consider the added comfort of a fully suspended bike (the Cricket is still about 2 lbs lighter than the Miami).

I like Pingus, however I have to say the lack of specs on his site is an issue. Our stem and frame QR is stronger, I can not compare anything else due to the lack of specs.

Thanks,
Yan

This statement is false and unfounded. We purchased an FS9 for comparison and I made certain that our hinges and latches are superior. I welcome anyone to provide an independent comparison as Yan and I could both be biased.

I had no idea of that page on your site. I like my bike better and I'm sure you prefer yours.

Thanks
yan

Originally Posted by Pinigis

This statement is false and unfounded. We purchased an FS9 for comparison and I made certain that our hinges and latches are superior. I welcome anyone to provide an independent comparison as Yan and I could both be biased.

I had no idea of that page on your site. I like my bike better and I'm sure you prefer yours.

Thanks
yan

Originally Posted by Pinigis

This statement is false and unfounded. We purchased an FS9 for comparison and I made certain that our hinges and latches are superior. I welcome anyone to provide an independent comparison as Yan and I could both be biased.